How to Splice Six Wires in Light Fixture Wiring

Wire nuts provide cover and protection for wiring.

Splicing wires is the process of joining them together through a means to make a solid electrical connection. The most common method of splicing electrical wires together for a light is to use a wire nut twisted on the end to lock the connections. The wire nut will also cover and protect the ends of the light's wires from making any contact with other materials and causing a potential electrical fire. Splcing six wires together for a light fixture is a relatively simple process.

Things You'll Need

• Electrical probe tester

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the light or electrical lines that will be spliced together. The power should be turned off at the main service panel. Use an electrical probe tester to make sure the lines are dead.

2. Splice the six wires together, using the wire nuts. Group the same-colored wires together (white to white, black to black, and bare to bare), and twist them together clockwise.

3. Twist a wire nut on the end of each wire connection, twisting clockwise until it is twisted tight.

4. Turn the power back on at the service panel. Turn on the light to test for power.

Tips & Warnings

• Always turn off the power to any electrical wiring before beginning a project, as contact with a live electrical circuit could lead to shock or electrocution.

References

• Popular Mechanics: Electrical Basics: Skill Set
• Renovation Headquarters: Using and Choosing Wire Nuts